KTM 2019 New Zealand Adventure Rallye preview

Scheduled for 9 to 14 November, this year’s rallye returns to the South Island. Over five big days, this KTM-only event will explore the famous ‘Top of the South’ regions of Nelson Tasman, Marlborough and Canterbury, covering the sort of terrain that’ll have orange adventure riders salivating.

Nelson will serve as the start and finish point, with the opening loop out of Nelson seeing riders hit dirt trails, a fun rocky climb and breathtaking views all in the first 50km.

The riverside mountain town of Murchison is the next stop, with the route to cover the favourite tracks of local experts, as well as some of the South Island’s most famous adventure roads – Rainbow and Molesworth Stations.

Further overnight stops at the charismatic town of Hanmer Springs and the coastal port of Picton are also on the itinerary – with some great trails inbetween - before the return to Nelson.

The rallye is tailored to suit a wide range of rider abilities, from those in their first years of adventure riding to seasoned pros. As such, KTM will offer two route options each day: Main Route and Breakout Route. The Main Route will be shorter and less technically challenging, made up of winding back country roads, metal roads and well-formed off-road tracks. The Breakout Routes offer tougher terrain for more advanced riders, including rocky trails, mud, steep hills, mountains, farm land and some real challenges.

For serious adventure riders, this year’s rallye also serves as the KTM Ultimate Race Qualifier for the Asia-Pacific region. Two lucky riders from this year’s event will win the chance to participate in the 2020 Merzouga Rally in Morocco.

The KTM New Zealand Adventure Rallye is open to orange adventure riders with the following KTM bikes: 640, 690, 790, 790R, 950, 990, 1050, 1090, 1090R, 1190, 1190R, 1290 and 1290R.

Registrations opened on 28 June, but given the popularity of these rallyes, this year’s is sure to sell out. To register and find further details, go to: ridektm.com.au/2019-ktm-new-zealand-adventure-rallye-top-of-the-south/